01
Jan
Sealants
The pits and grooves of your teeth are prime areas for opportunistic decay. Even regular brushing sometimes misses some of these intricate structures on the chewing surfaces of your teeth.
Enter sealants, which are thin coatings applied to the chewing surfaces designed to prevent the intrusion of bacteria and other debris into the deep crevices on the tops of your teeth.
Sealants actually were developed about 50 years ago, but didn’t become commonly used until the 1970s. Today, sealants are becoming widely popular and effective; young children are great candidates for preventative measures like sealants because in many cases, decay has not set in. Even on teeth where decay is present, sealants have been shown to fight additional damage.
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Sealants are applied by first cleaning the tooth surface. The procedure is followed by etching the tooth with an abrasive substance, which allows the sealant to better adhere. After the sealant is applied, a warm light source is directed to the site to promote faster drying. Sealants usually need re-application every five to 10 years.
Dental Sealant FAQs
If you are struggling with tooth decay, your dentist may recommend dental sealants to protect your teeth. So, what are dental sealants? Do they last a lifetime? Keep reading the FAQS section below for answers and more information.
What are dental sealants?
A dental sealant is a colorless, plastic coating applied on the chewing surfaces of teeth to deter tooth decay. While you brush and floss your teeth diligently, it’s virtually impossible to clean all the surfaces of your teeth, especially the back teeth (molars) riddled with deep grooves and depressions. These uneven chewing surfaces trap food and become good hiding spots for decay-causing bacteria.
Dental sealants act as a protective barrier to cover the deep pits in the molars and seal out harmful bacteria and acids.
How are dental sealants applied?
Applying dental sealants is a painless process, often completed in one appointment. The best part? It’s a conservative procedure where the dentist doesn’t need to alter the enamel.
To start the procedure, the dentist will professionally clean the teeth to remove any traces of harmful bacteria and food debris. Then, the dentist will apply an acidic gel on the teeth to create a strong bonding surface. After drying the tooth, the dentist paints the chewing surfaces of the prepped teeth with dental sealants, carefully covering all the grooves and pits. The last step is to harden the sealant with a curing light to create a durable restoration.
What are the benefits of dental sealants?
Provided you observe diligent oral hygiene, such as brushing and flossing, dental sealants effectively prevent dental decay. Following are the many benefits of protecting your teeth with dental sealants.
• Affordable procedure
• Conservative procedure
• Painless
• Long-lasting results
• Natural-looking outcomes
Are dental sealants for children only?
It’s a common misconception that dental sealants are only ideal for children. While dental sealants are commonly used in children because of their vulnerability to tooth decay, dental sealants can benefit patients of all ages at risk of cavities. So, whether you are an infant, teen, or adult, don’t let cavities deny you the beautiful, healthy smile you deserve. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Douglas Hoppe for dental sealants.
How long do dental sealants last?
When well maintained, dental sealants can last many years up to a decade. Taking care of fissure sealants includes brushing and flossing your teeth conscientiously. Besides, you should see a dentist every six months to check the condition of your sealants. The advantage of sealants is that they are easily repairable in case of wear and tear.
When is the best time to get dental sealants?
The best time to get teeth sealants is NOW! You see, once tooth decay forms, it can’t be reversed. And, unless you get dental care like tooth fillings, the decay can progress, costing your tooth.
Seal out your teeth today because prevention is better than cure. Dental sealants deter tooth decay, saving you from unnecessary pain and costly restorative procedures.
Want to learn more about dental sealants? Call (517) 667-7066 to talk to the team at Douglas Hoppe DDS. For more information, you can also visit our Eaton Rapids, Michigan, office.
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Douglas Hoppe, DDS
Dr. Douglas Hoppe is a highly skilled dentist with over 18 years of experience providing personalized dental care. A valedictorian from Swan Valley High School, he earned his Bachelor’s in Chemistry from Michigan State University before completing his dental training at the University of Michigan. Dr. Hoppe is a member of the American Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, and Michigan Dental Association. Committed to ongoing education, he trained at the Pankey Institute and is actively involved in local dental study clubs and the Eaton Rapids Rotary Club. Dr. Hoppe is known for his compassionate approach, ensuring optimal oral health for his patients.
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